Ask an expert

I am looking at buying a 1997 Holden Vectra CD for around $3,000.

Do these cars have any notorious problems? It has done 270,000km's but the engine was replaced at 200,000km's

Also, what other options are there around this price range?

Ideally I'm after a 4 door sedan with a 2litre engine.

Holly

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 3 September 2009

The Vectra of this age was not without its problems and was prone to a number of mechanical issues in comparison to the mainstream Japanese brands.

Having said that however, any car you buy with an odometer reading of 270,000kms is a risk regardless of any previous engine work. The engine replacement was highly likely a second hand unit.

I would try and stick to the Japanese brands and, if you can drive a manual avoid automatics as they can be very expensive to repair.

Whatever you end up buying insist on, and sight, a new Warrant of Fitness (not more than one month old) before you commit to purchasing.

Consider also a Pre-Purchase inspection.